BIS Quality Control Order for General Purpose Chairs and Stools

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry, through its Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), issued the Furniture (Quality Control) Order, 2025, on February 13, 2025. This move aims to ensure that furniture products, particularly General Purpose Chairs and Stools, adhere to high-quality standards, promoting consumer safety and industry excellence. 

Key Highlights of the Order

1. Implementation Timeline

• The order will come into force 12 months from the date of its publication, providing manufacturers ample time to comply. 

2. Compulsory Use of Standard Mark

• General Purpose Chairs and Stools chairs must conform to Indian Standard IS 17632:2022.
• They must bear the Standard Mark, issued under a Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) license, as per Scheme-I of Schedule-II under the BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018. 

3. Exemptions

The order provides certain exemptions to ensure a balanced implementation:

• Exports: The order does not apply to furniture manufactured domestically for export purposes.
• Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs): Enterprises classified as Micro and Small under the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises Development Act, 2006, will have an extended compliance period of 18 months.
• Very Small Enterprises: Manufacturers registered under the Udyam Portal, with an investment in plant and machinery/equipment not exceeding ₹25 lakh and an annual turnover not exceeding ₹2 crore, are fully exempt from compliance. 

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the certifying and enforcing authority responsible for ensuring compliance with the order. Any violation of the order will be punishable under the provisions of the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016.

The Furniture (Quality Control) Order, 2025, is a significant step toward improving product standards in the Indian furniture industry. By ensuring adherence to Indian Standard IS 17632:2022, this regulation aims to enhance consumer trust, boost exports, and encourage quality-driven manufacturing. While exemptions provide necessary relief to small enterprises, the long-term goal remains clear: a quality-conscious, globally competitive Indian furniture industry.

Implementation Dates: 13th February 2026